Outdoor wear comfort depends upon a balance functions like breathability, wicking, rapid drying, insulation, durability, as well as wind and waterproofing. Outdoor wear clothing should be lightweight and allow good freedom of movement and to contain as few garments as possible.

Use functioning layers to create a "personal climate" that keeps you comfortable and protected from outdoor weather conditions.  The outer layer of your outdoor clothing seals out weather and protect you from wet, windy, and extreme elements. Your outer layer, or outerwear, will depend very much on where you are and what you are doing.

Unfortunately there is an reverse relationship between breatheability and waterproofness. The more breathable a product is, the less waterproof it will be. There three levels of outdoorwear are "Waterproof/non-breathable", "water resistant/breathable or windproof/breathable" and "waterproof/not very breathable".

Waterproof outdoor wear clothing that covers the entire body is a must for any outdoorman, hunter, or fisherman, etc. A waterproof jacket with a hood and pants is a good choice. A good complement is the trusty rain poncho. Make sure the outdoor wear also is roomy enough to fit easily over other layers and not restrict your movement.

The choice of material is not the only factor to consider when choosing outdoor wear. Features like zippers, seam sealing and other construction elements must also be examined.